UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC 

Regulatory Docket No. _______________ 

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

Stephen M Babbitt

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF 

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL 

OPERATION OF DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL AND DJI INSPIRE 1 

UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112-

95)

Submitted on October 4, 2015

Stephen M Babbitt

1121 Settlers Creek Pl

Rapid City, SD

57701

Tel- 605-430-5499
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Page 

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS...................................................................................3 

SUMMARY...........................................................................................................................4 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER....................................................4 

BACKGROUND....................................................................................................................5

BASIS FOR PETITION.........................................................................................................5 

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER.............................................................8

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH STEPHEN M 

BABBTTT SEEKS EXEMPTION.............................................................................8

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF STEPHEN M BABBITT SEEKS AND THE REASON 

STEPHEN M BABBITT SEEKS THE RELIEF..................................................12

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING STEPHEN M BABBITT’S REQUEST

WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST .........................................................16

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT 

ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY..........................................................................20

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER......35

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS 

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT STEPHEN M BABBITT’S REQUEST.................36

CONCLUSION....................................................................................................................36

APPENDICES........................................................................................38
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GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation 

GCS Ground Control Station 

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link 

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot In Command

Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333

SO Safety Observer

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
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SUMMARY 

Stephen M Babbitt seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) &

(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 

91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the 

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit 

Stephen M Babbitt to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial

purpose of conducting aerial video and photography, architecture, and demonstrating drone 

use for college students enrolled in photography programs.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Stephen M Babbitt provides clients with aerial photography and videography, to

include real estate and architectural imging. Stephen M Babbitt has over four (4) years

operating remote controled UASs in a recreational and hobby use. Stephen M Babbitt has

also had over thirty five (38) years of experience in photography. Stephen M Babbitt’s

objective is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of commercial, public, 

educational and residential uses. Stephen M Babbitt plans to specifically target these

areas :

 Aerial photography and videography

 Real Estate videography and photography

 Demonstrating drone use for college students enrolled in

photography programs at Black Hills State University in Spearfish,

SD, where he is a professor of photography in the Mass

Communication Department.

 Increase public knowledge of UAS and promote safe UAS operations
BACKGROUND 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 Professional, UAS

Stephen M Babbitt seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or

hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional is vertical takeoff and landing

(VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing 

electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional has a maximum 

gross weight of approximately 2 pounds 11 ounces, while having a length of 16 inches 

width of 16 inches, height of 8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 29 knots. 

The DJI Inspire 1 has a maximum gross weight of 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, a length of 17.3 

inches, width of 17.7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 

42 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1UAs are equipped with four 

main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors. 

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAs will be operated by 

Stephen M Babbitt and will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, 

Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and marked in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Making.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, Stephen M Babbitt, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal

Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby 

petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

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and DJI Inspire 1 UASs in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption 

from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated 

with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Stephen M Babbitt’s operation of DJI

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs meets the conditions of FMRA Section 

333 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 

C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Accordingly, Stephen M Babbitt requests relief from Sections 91.405(a),

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth 

requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. 

 Stephen M Babbitt submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent

level of safety will be ensured. Stephen M Babbitt will use experienced personnel or

technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs 

using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in their operating documents (i.e., 

Monthly Maintenance Logs, and Instruction Manuals). Furthermore, Stephen M Babbitt

will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs. 

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private 

pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by Stephen M Babbitt to

the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher 

level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by 

meeting 

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minimum flight- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs in a manner consistent with this 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Stephen M Babbitt seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft

airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs do not 

require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As 

such, Stephen M Babbitt submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 Professional

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs are in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining 

that the UASs are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and DJI Phantom Professional 3 and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manuals), and that the 

aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. 

 Stephen M Babbitt also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section

91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 as 

these UASs will not have a typical barometric altimeter on-board. However, altitude 

information of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs is provided to the 

PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry 

data link, which down-links from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight 

path. This altitude information, combined with Stephen M Babbitt’s operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs within visual line of sight, at or below 

400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. 

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Additionally, Stephen M Babbitt seeks an exemption from the requirements

of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions.

Stephen M Babbitt submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs during daylight hours in visual 

meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough 

battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 13.5 minutes to the first 

point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for 

at least 4.5 minutes. 

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Stephen M Babbitt provides the

following information in support of its petition for exemption: 

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is:

Stephen M Babbitt

1121 Settlers Creek Pl

Rapid City, SD

57701

Tel- 605-430-5499

E-mail- steve.babbitt@bhsu.edu

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Stephen M Babbitt Seeks

Exemption.

1. Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of

Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, 

subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part: 

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command

(PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or

hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft.
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(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in

connection with any business or employment if—

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or

hire.

2. Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

91.7(a).

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a), states the 

following: 

(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.

3. Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

91.121.

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in 

part: 

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight

level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set,

when operating--

(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to--

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and

within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of

this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate

available station; or

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the

departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before

departure.
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4. Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection 

(b), states the following: 

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly

to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to

fly after that for at least 20 minutes.

5. Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section

91.405(a).

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: 

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

(a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall

between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this

section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]

6. Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

91.407(a)(1)

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, 

rebuilding, or alteration, subsection (a)(1), states the following: 

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive

maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless--

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under §

43.7 of this chapter[.]

(b) Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections

91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections, subsection (a), states the following: 
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(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an

aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had --

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has

been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this

chapter; or

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance

with part 21 of this chapter.

(b) Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections

91.417(a) And 91.417(b).

Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records, subsections (a) and (b), state the 

following: 

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each

registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods

specified in paragraph (b) of this section:

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and

records of the 100-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved

inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and

each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must

include--

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of

the work performed; and

(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the

aircraft for return to service.

(2) Records containing the following information:

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller,

and each rotor.

(ii) The current status of life-limited parts of each airframe, engine,

propeller, rotor, and appliance.
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(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which

are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis.

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the

last inspection required by the inspection program under which the

aircraft and its appliances are maintained.

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and

safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD

or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety

directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next

action is required.

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each

major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors,

propellers, and appliances.

(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods

prescribed:

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained

until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the

work is performed.

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained

and transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold.

A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter 

shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to 

service. 

C. The Extent Of Relief Stephen M Babbitt Seeks And The Reason Stephen M

Babbitt Seeks The Relief.

1. Extent Of Relief Stephen M Babbitt Seeks And The Reason Stephen M

Babbitt Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and 

limitations: Pilot in command, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a 

private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical 
certificate, and who has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, to conduct the 

proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. 

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) 

state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in 

connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that 

business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire. 

As set forth more fully below, Stephen M Babbitt submits that an equivalent level

of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency 

requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs in a manner consistent with the 

operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency 

maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles 

and structures. Further, Stephen M Babbitt submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3

Professional UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be 

incidental to Stephen M Babbitt’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for

compensation or hire.

2. Extent Of Relief Stephen M Babbitt Seeks And The Reason Stephen M Babbit

Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).

Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, is requested to the 

extent required to allow Stephen M Babbitt to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the 

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UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the Stephen M Babbitt Aerial

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

Instruction Manual). 

Stephen M Babbitt seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3

Professional UAS dose not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14

C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Stephen M Babbitt will ensure that the DJI Phantom

3 Professional UASs are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the

operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional

Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft is in

condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below. 

3. Extent Of Relief Stephen M Babbitt Seeks And The Reason Stephen M Babbitt

Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow 

flight operations of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, which utilizezes a barometric

pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since 

the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to 

air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Stephen M Babbitt seeks the

requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA’s altimeter may be set on the 

ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before 

each flight. 

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Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 

91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and 

limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will 

be maintained since the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA is equipped with a barometric

pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level 

pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with altitude 

information of the UA on the heads-up display of the GCS. 

4. Extent Of Relief Stephen M Babbitt Seeks And The Reason Stephen M Babbitt

Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR 

conditions, is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions 

(VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first 

point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 

4.5 minutes.Stephen M Babbitt seeks the requested relief because without an exemption

from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UA will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo 

flight operations that Stephen M Babbitt proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional operating documents, and Stephen M 

Babbitt's proposed operating limitations, ensure that Stephen M Babbitt will safely operate

the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA during daylight hours in visual

meteorological conditions (VMC), under

 Page | 15 
visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 

minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly 

after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

5. Extent Of Relief Stephen M Babbitt Seeks And The Reason Stephen M Babbitt

Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2),

And 91.417(a) & (b).

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) 

only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, Stephen M Babbitt requests relief

from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS does not require

airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 1 

UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness

certificate. Accordingly, Stephen M Babbitt will use trained technicians to perform

maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the Stephen M 

Babbitt Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3

Professional Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Stephen M Babbitt will document and

maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 

UASs. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting Stephen M Babbitt’s Request Would Be In The Public

Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole.

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Stephen 

M Babbitt to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography

of construction sites, real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States. 

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Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will decrease congestion 

of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the 

benefits of Stephen M Babbitt’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be

realized without implicating any privacy issues. 

1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA is battery powered and serve as a safe,

efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain 

aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial 

acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS would 

reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as 

increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. 

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, 

congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA does not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a

reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would 

result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, 

takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations. 

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI

Phantom 3 Professional UAS.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing 

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the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still 

photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS produces no air pollution, and is the most viable

environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion 

engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning 

approximately 20-30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UA, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also 

eliminates noise pollution, as the UAis propelled by battery powered electric motors,

rather than an internal combustion engine. 

By using the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA to perform aerial acquisitions, the 

substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually 

associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced 

or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the 

aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA (weighing approximately 2 pounds 11 

ounce, at it's maximum gross weights with length of 16 inches, width of 16 inches and

with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and 

property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically 

conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of 

approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). 

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI

Phantom 3 Professional UAS Will Benefit The Economy.
In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASis also

an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As 

such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will allow United States based 

companies, like Stephen M Babbitt, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the

U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental 

Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded aviation fuels, U.S. 

owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative technology in order to 

remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is 

one such technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility 

compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational 

cost of a traditional manned aircraft. 

By operating the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, companies such as Stephen M 

Babbitt, can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability

to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. 

economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of 

the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer 

spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest 

in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United States and 

abroad. 

4. There Are No Privacy Issues.

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for 

decades, Stephen M Babbitt’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and

DJI Inspire 1 UASs will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 

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Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will be operated only in compliance with operating 

documents (i.e., the Stephen M Babbitt Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual) which 

requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, and in 

accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude 

requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety,

Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That

Provided By The Rule From Which Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAs Meet

The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

(FMRA) Section 333. 

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated 

with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Stephen M Babbitt’s operation of the DJI

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs meet the conditions of FMRA Section 

333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 

21, Subpart H. 

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness 

certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a 

hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part: 

(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not

later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of

Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may

operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the plan and

rulemaking required by section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by

section 334 of this Act.
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(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the determination under

subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their

size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and

populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create

a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a

threat to national security; and

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or

airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States

Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems

identified under paragraph (1).

(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines under this

section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the

national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe

operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.

In seeking this exemption, Stephen M Babbitt submits that the DJI Phantom 3

Professional UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA 

Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific 

operating limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1

UASs Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs do not create a hazard to 

users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering 

its size, weight, speed, and operational capability. 

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and

DJI Inspire 1 UASs.
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The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 

UASs are set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 Specifications and 

Data Sheet, attached hereto as Exhibit A and B. 

ii. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs

Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UASs To

Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs may be operated in both 

manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and 

navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs is provided 

at pages 25-35 of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and pages 12-16 and 45-50 of the DJI 

Inspire 1 User Manuals, attached hereto as Exhibit C and D. 

iii. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Are

Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The

Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 

UAs will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAs do not reacquire control link data from the 

GCS, the UAs will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UAs will return to the 

home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and 

shutdown. 

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS are set forth at pages 27 through 29 and for the DJI Inspire 1 at pages 13 through 15 

of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals, attached hereto as 

Exhibit C and D. 
Page | 23 

iv. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 GCS And Its

Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 32 

through 43 of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manual and pages 40 through 47 of the 

DJI Inspire 1 User Manual. DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals 

are attached hereto as Exhibits C and D. 

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1

UASs Are Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in

Command With A Safety Observer.

Stephen M Babbitt will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and 

valid airman medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs. Additionally, a safety observer will assist all pilots 

during flight time. 

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Will Be

Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, Stephen M Babbitt proposes to commercially operate 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs for the special purpose of conducting 

aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the 

following specific operating limitations: 

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the

following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs

weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed

operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to

amend this grant.

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations

for the purpose of aerial video and photography.
Page | 24 

3. The UAs may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground

level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating

documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes

reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

5. The UAs must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all

times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any

device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued

airman medical certificate.

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not

permitted.

7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to

satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS

capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times.

Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The

PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her

designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can

perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents.

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing

and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and

is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments.

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during

UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a

discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant

of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the

conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence

and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as

outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its

operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions

and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request.

The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for

extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator determines

that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted

the exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of

exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if

questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents.

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a

condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the

safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the
Page | 25 

necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a 

condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the 

preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly 

documented in the aircraft records. 

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS

operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical

component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the

functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records.

12. The pre-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g.

inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the

relevant sections of the operating documents.

13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component,

maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements.

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping

requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance,

inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts

must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description

of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the

UAS to service.

15. Each UASs operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer

Safety Bulletins.

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the

corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current

third- class medical certificate.

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the

operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate

the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining

appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC

qualification flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R.

§ 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are

permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may

only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training,

proficiency, and experience-building flights, all persons not essential for flight

operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA

with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. §

91.119.
Page | 26 

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. §

1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions

(VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA

office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight

rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as

denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of

agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is

conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA.

The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to

the Administrator upon request.

21. The UA may not be operated less than 400 feet below or less than 2,000 feet

horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the

PIC.

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a

predetermined location within the planned operating area and land or be

recovered in accordance with the operating documents.

23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or

emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and

forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising

speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power

remaining.

25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate

of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the

grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice

to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48

hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance

with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace,

altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by

serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have

identification (N- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45,

Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation

and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications

Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency

requirements.
Page | 27 

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be

available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the

UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the

Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation

operations and activities at all times.

30. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating

persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons),

vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating

persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The

operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such

protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such

protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease

immediately and/or;

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the

owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted

permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of

operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present

an undue hazard, and;

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons

do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property

with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative.

Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be 

reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) within 24 hours. 

Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) 

per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov. 

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a)

And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

Stephen M Babbitt submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 

61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI 
Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs unless that PIC has demonstrated, by 

meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely 

operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with 

the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Considering Stephen M Babbitt’s proposed area of operations, and the operating

limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge 

requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and 

the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional or DJI 

Inspire 1 UAS, Stephen M Babbitt submits that the additional manned airmanship

experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills 

necessary for Stephen M Babbitt’s specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to 

UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

Stephen M Babbitt will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3

Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum 

flight-hour requirements or the DJI Phantom 3 Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS training 

and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Page | 28 
Page | 29 

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent 

with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a 

minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of 

UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, 

the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency 

purposes). 

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight 

experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an 

equivalent level of safety during Stephen M Babbitt’s proposed operations. The

Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in 

compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows: 

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for 

the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have 

accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of 

total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS 

pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the 

PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot 

operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the 

exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements 

to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be 

included in the 10 hours of multi-rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in 

the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the 

PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for 

currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight-hour requirements 

in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the 

skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA 

also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance 

with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, 

and experience-building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption 

to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and 

experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate 

distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. 

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. 
20. Accordingly, Stephen M Babbitt will ensure safe operations by not allowing any

PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that

PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency

requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3

Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption,

including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a)

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained 

because prior to every flight, Stephen M Babbitt will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3

Professional or DJI Inspire 1 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s 

compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations 

herein. 

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific 

to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained 

because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAs 

will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data 

link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and 

altitude. This altitude information, combined with Stephen M Babbitt’s operation of the

DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAs within visual line of sight, at or below 

500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude 

Page | 30 
information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to 

each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UASs at 

ground level. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption 

Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 

11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b)

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 

14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight 

operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Stephen M 

Babbitt will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAs during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough 

battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended 

landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and 

the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety 

established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs provide audible and visual warnings to the 

PIC at the GCS when the UAs experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring 

at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% 

Page | 31 
remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom Vision+ and 

DJI Inspire 1 UASs will descend and land automatically. 

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 

establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and 

operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned 

aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including 

Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief 

from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to 

those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 

11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 

11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.405(a),

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not

Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, Stephen M Babbitt submits that the equivalent level of

safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by 

Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met 

because Stephen M Babbitt will use trained technicians to perform maintenance,

alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and 

practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the Stephen M Babbitt Aerial 

Operations Manual, 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction 

Manual). Furthermore, Stephen M Babbitt will document and maintain all maintenance

records for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs. 

Page | 32 
Since the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will be inspected as 

prescribed by the operating documents, Stephen M Babbitt will maintain the equivalent

level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of 

the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals are attached hereto as 

Exhibit C and D; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UAS 

Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Exhibit E. 

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because JStephen M 

Babbitt will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive 

maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the 

operating documents. 

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety 

established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will be performed by trained 

technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly 

maintenance log. 

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is 

not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the 

UAS are considered. 

In consideration of Stephen M Babbitt’s proposed operating limitations, the

operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI 

Inspire 1 UASs, Stephen M Babbitt submits that safety will not be adversely affected by

granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)

(2), and 

Page | 33 
Page | 34 

91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances 

similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 

11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 

11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 

2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, Stephen M Babbitt 

requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, which contain such safety standards that 

the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that 

established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 

91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAs for the limited purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for 

compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering 

whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a 

threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate 

without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be 

established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS. 

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. 

§ 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, since the

airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate 
Page | 35 

safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design features of the aircraft. Section 21.16, 

entitled Special Conditions, states the following: 

If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain 

adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller 

because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or 

propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. 

The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and 

contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the 

FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in 

the regulations. 

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16. 

Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA 

may prescribe special conditions for Stephen M Babbitt’s intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, which contain such safety standards that 

the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that 

established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 

91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & 

(b). 

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules

From Which Stephen M Babbitt Seeks Exemption:

Stephen M Babbitt seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections

61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & 

(a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption Stephen M Babbitt 

Seeks: 

This exemption will permit Stephen M Babbitt to commercially operate an

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States.
G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support

Stephen M Babbitt.

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012(FMRA) 

Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS

may operate safely in the NAS. As such,Stephen M Babbitt’s request for exemption may

be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set

forth above. 

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will

create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national

security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness 

certification. 

As discussed in detail above, Stephen M Babbitt will operate the DJI Phantom 3

Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users

of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, Stephen M Babbitt seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §

11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which

will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs

commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting

aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this

Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public,

Page | 36
Page | 37 

by allowing Stephen M Babbitt to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI

Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs commercially within the NAS. 

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the 

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Stephen M Babbitt 

respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the 

requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Stephen M Babbitt to 

operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional and DJI Inspire 1 UASs commercially for the 

purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. 

Dated: June 26, 2015 

Respectfully submitted, 

Stephen M Babbitt 

_________________________ 

Stephen M Babbitt 

1121 Settlers Creek Place 

Rapid City, SD 57701

Telephone: (605) 430-5499

Email: steve.babbitt@bhsu.edu
Page | 38 

Appendices: 

A. DJI Phantom 3 Professional Specifications Data Sheet

B. DJI Inspire 1 Specifications Data Sheet

C. DJI Phantom 3 Professional Manufacturer’s User Manual

D. DJI Inspire 1 Manufacturer’s Maintenance Manual

E. Monthly Maintenance Log

F. Pre-Flight Checklist

APPENDIX – A 

DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Stephen M Babbitt only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small 

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight 

to a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude 

and location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices) 

1.1 DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

1.1.1 Aircraft

1.1.1.1 Supported Battery – DJI 5200mAH LiPo Battery 

1.1.1.2 Weight (Battery & Propellers Included) – 2.82lbs (1280g) 

1.1.1.3 Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly) – Vertical: .5m; Horizontal: 1.5m 

1.1.1.4 Max Yaw Angular Velocity - 2000/s

1.1.1.5 Max Tilt Angel - 350

1.1.1.6 Max Ascent Speed – 5m/s 

1.1.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 3m/s 

1.1.1.8 Max Flight Speed – 16m/s (NOT RECOMMENDED) 

1.1.2 Gimbal

1.1.2.1 Working Current – Static: 750mA; Dynamic: 900mA 

1.1.2.2 Control Accuracy - ±0.030

1.1.2.3 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 - 00

1.1.2.4 Maximum Angular Speed – Pitch: 900/s

1.1.3 Camera 

1.1.3.1 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C) 

1.1.3.2 Sensor Size – 1/2.3” 
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1.1.3.3 Effective Pixels – 14M 

1.1.3.4 Resolution – 4384x3288 

4.1.3.5 HD Video Recording – 1080p30 & 720p 

4.1.3.6 Recording Field of View - 1100/850

1.1.4 Transmitter 

1.1.4.1 Operating Frequency – 5.728GHz – 5.85GHz 

1.1.4.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – FCC Compliance: 800m 

1.1.4.3 Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) - -93dBm 

1.1.4.4 Transmitter Power – FCC Compliance: 100mW 

1.1.4.5 Working Voltage – 120mA@3.7V 

1.1.5 Range Extender 

1.1.5.1 Operating Frequency – 2412-2462MHz 

1.1.5.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – 500-700m 

1.1.5.3 Transmitter Power – 20dBm 

Power Consumption – 2W 
Page | 40 

APPENDIX – B 

DJI INSPIRE 1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Stephen M Babbitt only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight 

to a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude 

and location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices) 

2.2 DJI Inspire 1 

2.2.1 Aircraft

2.2.1.1 Model – T600 

2.2.1.2 Weight (Battery Included) – 6lbs 7.5291oz (2935g) 

2.2.1.3 Hovering Accuracy (GPS Mode) – Vertical: 0.5m; Horizontal: 2.5m 

2.2.1.4 Max Angular Velocity – Pitch: 3000/s; Yaw: 1500/s

2.2.1.5 Max Tilt Angle - 350

2.2.1.6 Max Ascent Speed – 5m/s 

2.2.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 4m/s 

2.2.1.8 Max Speed – 22m/s (ATTI mode, no wind – NOT 

RECOMMENDED) 

2.2.1.9 Max Flight Altitude – 4500m 

2.2.1.10 Max Wind Resistance – 10m/s 

2.2.1.11 Max Flight Time – Approximately 18 minutes 

2.2.1.12 Motor Model – DJI 3510 

2.2.1.13 Propeller Model – DJI 1345 

2.2.1.14 Operating Temperature Range – 140F to 1040F (-100C to 400C)

2.2.1.15 Dimensions – 17 1⁄4” x 17 3⁄4” x 12” 

2.2.2 Gimbal

2.2.2.1 Model – ZENMUSE X3 

2.2.2.2 Output Power (with camera) – Static: 9W; In Motion: 11W 

2.2.2.3 Operating Current – Static: 750mA; In Motion: 900mA 

2.2.2.4 Angular Vibration Range - ±0.030

2.2.2.5 Mounting – Detachable 

2.2.2.6 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 to +300; Pan: ±3200

2.2.2.7 Mechanical Range – Pitch: -1250 to 450; Pan: ±3300

2.2.2.8 Max Controllable Speed – Pitch: 1200/s; Pan: 1800/s

2.2.3 Camera 

2.2.3.1 Name – X3

2.2.3.2 Model – FC350 
Page | 41 

2.2.3.3 Total Pixels – 12.76M 

2.2.3.4 Effective Pixels – 12.4M 

2.2.3.5 Image Max Size – 4000x3000

2.2.3.6 ISO Range – 100-3200 

2.2.3.7 Field of View - 940

2.2.3.8 CMOS – Sony EXMOR 1/2.3”

2.2.3.9 HD Video Recording – UHD(4K): 4096x2160p24/25, 

3840x2160p24/25/30; FHD: 1920x1080p24/25/30/48/50/60; HD: 

1280x720p24/25/30/48/50/60 

2.2.3.10 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

2.2.4 Transmitter 

2.2.4.1 Name – C1

2.2.4.2 Operating Frequency – 5.728-5.850GHz; 2.400-2.483GHz 

2.2.4.3 Communicating Distance (unobstructed) – 2000m 

2.2.4.4 Output Power – 9W 

2.2.4.5 Operating Temperature Range - 140F to 1040F (-100C to 400C)

2.2.4.6 Battery – 600mAh LiPo 2S 
Page | 42 

APPENDIX – C 

See attached DJI Phantom 3 Professional Manufacturer’s User Manual. 

APPENDIX – D 

See attached DJI Inspire 1 Manufacturer’s Maintenance Manual 

APPENDIX – E

MONTHLY MAINTENANCE LOG

month:_________(year:________

UAS:___________ Date, Issue 

Discovered

Date, Issue 

Addressed

Issue, Description,& Maintenance Conducted Maintenance Performed By, Print and Sign 

Name

Software Updates

Airframe

Engines

Propellers

Camera/Gimbal

Landing Gear (Inspire 1)

Vibration Dampening

Other:
Page | 43 

APPENDIX – F 

Pre-Flight Checklist: